Scanner centre to investigate whether SAD lamps can lift workforce mood

As winter months bring reduced daylight hours, a proposed study at Paul Strickland Scanner Centre (PSSC), Northwood, aims to evaluate whether specially designed artificial lighting can improve wellbeing and mood among the radiography workforce. Pending official research approval, the study will focus on addressing the effects of seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a common condition during the colder months that can lead to symptoms of depression and disrupted circadian rhythms due to reduced sunlight exposure.

The radiography workforce is particularly vulnerable to SAD, as scanner and control areas generally lack natural daylight, and many staff arrive at work before dawn and leave after sunset.

The PSSC study is called the Bright Light Therapy Project and involves staff across all levels. Each participant will be supplied with a SAD lamp that simulates morning sunlight for the duration of the study. During an initial four-week period participants will use the lamps daily for a prescribed time. Data will be gathered using a recognised patient health questionnaire. Participants will then be monitored for an additional four weeks to evaluate the ongoing effects of the intervention.

In the second phase, participants who wish to proceed will continue the therapy for two weeks with an increased exposure time. This aims to determine whether extending the sessions has a greater impact on mood and overall wellbeing. Participants will be monitored for four weeks post-intervention to capture the lasting effects of the therapy.

Picture: Bright light therapy can help ease the symptoms of seasonal affective disorder.

Read this report on page 24 of the December 2024 issue of RAD Magazine.